Apr 30, 2018, 11:10 AM ETConference Presentation, Fireside Chat, Statement

John F.W. Rogers: Opening Session Remarks

The event broadcasts to a virtual audience matching the size of the physical attendance, with a summit agenda designed for the upcoming two days to provide actionable insights.
The 6,752 graduates are expected to maintain future expectations filled with promise while continuing to grow their family-run businesses to earn customer trust.
Alumni plan to elevate the voices of small businesses across all 50 states and 347 of the 435 congressional districts during an upcoming Hill Day event.
Participants anticipate meeting with district representatives and state senators to engage in dialogue with elected officials regarding their role in the U.S. economy.
The gathering aims to propose ways to shape regulatory regimes to help businesses take full advantage of upcoming opportunities and remove barriers to growth.
Organizers expect the summit to advance the vitality of the nation by addressing the changing economic landscape and amplifying dialogue on small business essentiality.
The collective voice of small businesses is predicted to be critical in local and national conversations, bridging gaps between current states and future expectations.
Concerns exist that without collective effort by small business owners, the American dream may not remain alive, and resource-constrained firms may persist without mitigation.
Success is anticipated if attendees commit single-minded resolve to leverage their entrepreneurial spirit to improve lives and lift communities to better circumstances.